The Pico sailing boat is a small, single-handed dinghy designed for beginners and recreational sailors. It was developed by the British company LaserPerformance in collaboration with the Royal Yachting Association (RYA). The Pico is known for its simplicity, stability, and ease of use, making it a popular choice for sailing schools, clubs, and families.
Here are some key features of the Pico sailing boat:
1. Design: The Pico has a simple and durable design, with a hard chine hull and a wide beam, providing stability and ease of handling. It has a self-draining cockpit, which means any water that enters the boat will automatically drain out.
2. Size: The Pico is approximately 11 feet (3.35 meters) long and weighs around 132 pounds (60 kilograms). Its compact size makes it easy to transport on a trailer or car roof rack.
3. Rigging: The Pico features a simple rigging system with a single sail. The sail area is adjustable, allowing sailors to adapt to different wind conditions. The boat can be rigged and launched quickly, making it suitable for beginners.
4. Sailing Abilities: The Pico is designed to be sailed by one or two people, making it versatile for solo or tandem sailing. It is suitable for both adults and children, with a maximum recommended weight capacity of around 440 pounds (200 kilograms).
5. Training and Racing: The Pico is often used as a training boat for beginners to learn the basics of sailing. It is also used for recreational sailing and club racing. The boat's simplicity and stability make it an ideal platform for learning and building confidence on the water.
6. Accessories: The Pico can be customized with various accessories, such as a jib sail, a reefing kit for adjusting sail size, and a launching trolley for easy transportation.
Overall, the Pico sailing boat is a versatile and user-friendly dinghy that provides an enjoyable sailing experience for beginners and recreational sailors. Its simplicity, stability, and ease of use make it a popular choice for sailing schools, clubs, and families looking to explore the world of sailing.
